Rain could bring flash floods, officials say

Staff report

Published: Friday, July 5, 2013 at 2:05 p.m.

Last Modified: Friday, July 5, 2013 at 2:05 p.m.

TUSCALOOSA | Between 6 and 8 inches of rain has fallen across parts of Tuscaloosa County since Wednesday, and forecasters say another 2 to 4 inches could fall before the storm front moves out on Sunday.

Jessica Chace, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Birmingham, said certain isolated areas could receive more rain than the possible 4 inches by Monday.

No sustained high winds or tornadoes are expected, but Chace said the heavy rain could lead to flash floods across West Alabama and the rest of the state.

“With the rain that’s falling now, it’s only going to take a little more rain to produce flash flooding,” she said.

This is particularly hazardous because flash floods are one of the most fatal weather-related events across the country, Chace said.

“Don’t drive through flooded areas — you’re endangering not only yourself but others who may have to come and save you,” Chace said. “Stay weather aware.”

<p>TUSCALOOSA | Between 6 and 8 inches of rain has fallen across parts of Tuscaloosa County since Wednesday, and forecasters say another 2 to 4 inches could fall before the storm front moves out on Sunday.</p><p>Jessica Chace, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Birmingham, said certain isolated areas could receive more rain than the possible 4 inches by Monday. </p><p>No sustained high winds or tornadoes are expected, but Chace said the heavy rain could lead to flash floods across West Alabama and the rest of the state.</p><p>“With the rain that's falling now, it's only going to take a little more rain to produce flash flooding,” she said.</p><p>This is particularly hazardous because flash floods are one of the most fatal weather-related events across the country, Chace said.</p><p>“Don't drive through flooded areas — you're endangering not only yourself but others who may have to come and save you,” Chace said. “Stay weather aware.”</p>